Scripts for difficult moments

Ready-to-use phrases for situations when finding words is hard.

31 scripts8 categories0 favorites

Choose a sentence that sounds like you. Change the wording if you want; you do not have to share a diagnosis or explain more than you mean to.

Cancelling 4 phrases

I'm sorry, I have to cancel. I can't make it today.

Short, no explanation

I've realized I don't have enough energy to come. I hope you understand.

With brief reason

I'm sorry, but I need to cancel. Can we reschedule?

With alternative

I'm not feeling well enough to come. I'll let you know when I can.

When you don't know when you'll be ready

Boundaries 5 phrases

That doesn't work for me.

Simple and direct

I can't do that now. Maybe later.

Not now, keeping it open

I'd like to help, but this is too much for me right now.

When asked for help

I need some time to think about this.

When caught off guard

No, but thanks for asking.

Polite but clear

Leaving 4 phrases

I'm heading out. Have a nice evening.

Neutral

I notice I'm running low on energy. I'm going home.

With brief reason

I need some fresh air. I'll be right back.

Temporarily leaving

It was nice, but I'm going now. See you soon.

Positive closing

Accommodations 4 phrases

Can we sit somewhere quieter?

When it's too noisy

I work better when I have it in writing. Can you email that?

At work

I need a few minutes before we continue.

In meetings

Can we do this by phone instead of video?

When video is draining

Break 4 phrases

I'm taking a short break.

Simple

I'll be right back, just need to recharge.

With brief explanation

Can we continue in 10 minutes?

With time estimate

I need some quiet time. Give me fifteen minutes.

Specific

Overwhelmed 4 phrases

I can't talk right now.

Minimal words

I'm overwhelmed. I need quiet.

With explanation

Too much right now. Nothing for a bit.

Very short

I notice I'm shutting down. Give me some space.

When you feel it coming

Healthcare 3 phrases

I'd like a referral for autism assessment.

When you need a referral

This isn't working for me. Can we try something else?

When a treatment doesn't fit

I need more time to process this. Can I have it in writing?

When verbal is too fast

Work 3 phrases

I'd like to discuss what accommodations might help.

To open the conversation

I work best when I receive this in writing.

When you prefer written instructions

I need some time to think about this.

When caught off guard with a question

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